Write first-class hospitality applications for graduate jobs

Hospitality application form know-how

A number of organisations prefer you to fill out an application form rather than send a CV, which often doesn’t supply enough information. Application forms may seem daunting at first but it will be easier if you know the selection criteria and your appropriate skills, knowledge and experience.

Don’t forget that flashes of originality and an attention to detail will help. Sara Stark, group resourcing manager at Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, suggests that ‘well-composed answers without grammatical errors really stand out.’

Online applications are on the rise

A growing number of employers are developing online application systems but it’s not necessarily the norm. As Sara says, ‘The industry has been slow to adopt e-recruitment, but more hoteliers, for example, are using this route as it’s quicker, more cost effective and enables us to give a consistent service to all applicants.’

CV success for graduate candidates

Generally speaking, CVs fall into two categories – skills based CVs and chronological ones. Most employers find either format acceptable as each has its strengths. ‘Traditional chronological CVs are more common and tend to be easier to read but skills-based CVs naturally highlight relevant skills first and fore most,’ says Sara. You may find it helpful to show your CV to a friend or a careers adviser before launching it into the outside world.